Hundreds of students stopped by the Student Book Store on College Avenue today in support of Emily Whitehead, THON child for the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) who is currently fighting leukemia.

Students signed a banner, created by freshman Nick Hope, that will be sent to Emily at the end of the week at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). It just so happens that Wednesday is Emily’s 7th birthday. Hope, a member of Ohana, made the banner to show his support.

“I wanted to do something to help Emily and the Whiteheads; I can’t just sit back and do nothing,” said Hope. “I just want them to know that they are never alone in this.”

The banner captures various symbols that represent Emily and her fight. One being the hashtag #PrayingForEm, which is written in purple – her favorite color. Another is the Nittany Lion representing “Emily’s Army” here at Penn State. The words “FTK” and “THON” are also written in a butterfly, which Emily loves.

“Nick approached me Friday with the idea and presented the banner to us on Sunday,” said Becky Salman, senior FR captain, PRSSA THON chair and creator of the #PrayingForEm hashtag. “He took it completely upon himself to organize everything.”

Students who have yet to sign the banner can do so today through Thursday in front of the Student Book Store from 10am – 5pm, weather permitting. Check the Facebook event page for details.

The banner is quickly filling up with signatures and messages from students all over campus. At this rate, they may have to flip the banner over to fit everything. “It just goes to show how big Em’s army really is,” said Hope.

Follow Emily’s Facebook page, operated by her family, to stay updated.